CHRISTMAS AT LIBERTY

One of the most exciting moment in the career of a young illustrator is when that call or mail from a very big company that saw your work arrives and wants you, yes you!, to create an artwork.

All those years spent honing your technique and style are finally paying off: a reputable, major brand is commissioning you for an important project and you are well aware that this is a chance to step into another league of artists.

After the initial burst of enthusiasm, all sort of questions arises: what’s the best way to manage a negotiation, what should be made clear in the contract or what’s the best way to structure the nitty gritty day-to-day production workflow, are just few of aspects of creative production that shouldn’t be underestimated.

When Matteo called us he had just received a mail from Liberty, the iconic London department store, who wanted him to create an artwork for its bespoke retail corners. With such a splendid commission, Matteo’s approach was to make the most of this opportunity, focusing all his time and energy on creating the best artwork possibile rather than wondering how to manage it.

As he knew we had previously worked with his mentor Simone Massoni he reached out to ask us to support him through the whole process.

Matteo is undoubtedly talented and a nice guy, saying yes was literally a no brainer for us and we managed the artist from the initial response to delivery of the final image. The result speaks for itself: combining a soft creamy color palette with selected angular shapes, the artwork depicts a very cozy redemption of the historic building that dates back to the Tudor revival. The light coming out from the building projects a warm glow without shading giving an uplifting Holiday atmosphere.

And with an unexpected Christmas twist, Liberty decided to print the artwork an a very limited edition apron on sale exclusively on ITV’s Text Santa charity campaign in which all the proceeding are shared between Uk based charities McMillan, Save the Children and Make a Wish.